Proper maintenance is crucial in Southern California, where air conditioning is essential, especially in keeping homes cool during the warm climate. Unfortunately, like every other equipment, air conditioners can suffer from various flaws, particularly during the warm months. In this guide, we’ll discuss the 5 common AC problems in Southern California and provide tips on how to do AC repair in Southern California.
The Air Conditioning System Isn’t Cool Enough
One of the most frequent complaints from homeowners is simply that the AC is not cooling. While degeneration with age is the most popular reason for the unit’s inadequate cooling, other factors can also contribute to the problem. These could be dirty air filters, lack of refrigerant, or malfunctioning evaporator coils. If air filters are clogged, the airflow will be limited, thus making it difficult to cool effectively.
Solution:
Acceptably, most HVAC technicians famously point out that such filter elements should be changed only if they have been sooted up badly. Depending on how often the unit is used, an air filter may be largely caked with dust in about six weeks of constant usage. In the event of a problem, there should be an assessment for refrigerant leakage or frozen evaporators, and if any is found, an expert should be sought.
Water Dripping From AC Unit
Another ordinary problem that comes with air conditioners par, particularly in extreme weather conditions or, in some cases, excessive use, is dripping water. Air conditioning units also suffer another prevalent problem: leaking water when switching the unit on, especially during the summer. The leaked fluids can result from excessive condensation due to humidity levels; checking the levels of the humidity-removing devices will only tell half of the story.
Solution:
- Clear the condensate drainage system of all the built-up sludge.
- Progress to checking for frozen evaporator coils. Suppose any are frozen; it is best to thaw them out. If this continues, a professional may need to inspect the unit.
Thermostat and Airflow Problems
Most homeowners in Southern California face the problem of thermostat issues where the battery-operated device fails to correspond with the selected temperature settings. This could be due to faulty thermostat sensors or improper installation. Another recurrent problem is the low air volume from the system, often due to dirty filters or blocked vents.
Solution:
Recalibrate or replace the thermostat; the mechanism needs adjustment or change if it’s a temperature control problem.
Ensure that your vents and ducts are always free from blockages and that clean air filters are replaced or used to boost the airflow volume.
Refrigerant Leaks and Compressor Problems
The negative regarding refrigerant leaks is that they tend to be serious problems with most and, as a result, could lead to the AC running and blowing warm air only. If left unattended, low refrigerant levels over time will affect the compressor, which will, in turn, be expensive to repair.
Solution:
If your AC blows warm air or you find it hard to cool the AC system, the HVAC contractor should look out for refrigerant leaks.
Finding and responding to the problem early in its progression can prevent a compressor failure, which usually means that one has to buy a new compressor that costs relatively high.
One of the Common Problems, Frozen Evaporator Coils as well as Clogged Air Filters
The hot Southern Californian weather implies that the issue of frozen evaporator coils will be common, especially when the AC system is overworked. Blocked air filters are often a factor since they suppress the air volume, hence ice on the coils.
Solution:
Urgently change the blocked air filters to enhance the volume of air through them.
If your system has registered several cases of frozen coils, please ensure the system is switched off so the coils can melt. Also, seek advice from licensed HVAC personnel regarding possible underlying problems.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of AC Problems in Southern California
Many AC problems like poor cooling, water leaking, thermostat issues, and refrigerant leaks, among others, can easily be avoided by performing preventive maintenance activities. Filter changes, vent cleaning and scheduling annual comparisons of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning units are essential in maintaining the air conditioning system in perfect working condition throughout the hot summer weather in Southern California.
If problems persist, talk to a appliance repair Southern California to prevent repairs that will cost you and make your AC work properly.
